Boys of summer are home for the weekend: Tips for taking in the Seattle Mariners-Washington Nationals series

While ‘Canada’s Team’ is in a nosedive, the adoptive ‘home team’ of many Vancouverites is surging and looking to land a wild-card playoff berth. What better way to spend the last long weekend of the summer than to cross the border and watch some big league ball?

If you are planning on heading to watch the Seattle Mariners-Washington Nationals series this weekend, there are a few things you should consider to make it a worthy exclamation mark on your fantastic summer:

1. Get an early start — Chances are you won’t be the only person who will be making the trip across the border, so leave early to avoid massive border line ups. There is plenty to do once you get to Seattle, so that extra time before the game(s) will go quickly.

2. Park smart — Parking around Safeco Field is usually a nightmare, so if you don’t mind the walk to the ballpark, park several blocks away. On game day, it’s easy to find the ballpark. Just look for the countless hordes wearing baseball jerseys and head in the same direction. When you’re looking for a spot, remember that most lots are hourly, but usually have a flat rate after 5 p.m. (normally about $10). If you’re looking to make a quick escape, keep in mind that parking lots close to the stadium become a congested war zone after the game and you will be stuck for a while.

3. Join in the festivities — You’ll want to experience everything a game has to offer, so arrive a few hours early to bask in the atmosphere (and get some reasonably priced food/drink on Occidental Avenue). The best spot for a pre-game drink is The Pyramid Alehouse, which turns its parking lot into a beer garden on game day. Pound a few $5 Hefeweizen pints, then head over to the patio at Henry’s Tavern for some craft beer and some bocce.

4. Special attractions — There isn’t a better time to catch a game. There is a special addition to each game. Friday night’s crowd will be treated to some post-game fireworks. Get to the ballpark early Saturday because the first 20,000 fans through the door Aug. 30 will receive Felix Hernandez bobbleheads. Sunday, every fan 14 and under gets a Robinson Cano lunch cooler bag.

5. Seating — When it comes to viewing the game, you really can’t go wrong no matter where you sit. If you’d rather explore the building, eat garlic fries and people watch, the cheaper outfield seats are still very much in view of the action. Additionally, if you wanted to see one of the most gorgeous ballparks in all of baseball up close and personal, there are daily guided tours that take you onto the field and into the clubhouse for $10 a ticket. Tours are at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

6. Have a post-game plan — Once the game is over, that doesn’t mean your night has to be. If you’re looking for a post-game night spot, the Triangle Pub and Sluggers are both great options. It’s best to let the traffic die down a bit before heading back to your hotel anyway. It is much easier to get a cab when most of the fans have gone home. If you want to make a quick getaway, watch the last inning from the concourse between sections 149 and 150. There is an exit down a set of stairs that empties onto Occidental Avenue and will give you a great head start.

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